Some paprikas are better than others. if you are using the cheap stuff that comes in a tin can, you aren't going to get any flavor out of it and it will just burn at high heat. I recommend a good smoked paprika. It adds a decent flavor and color and you will be able use less of it in your rubs too.

Some paprikas are better than others. if you are using the cheap stuff that comes in a tin can, you aren't going to get any flavor out of it and it will just burn at high heat. I recommend a good smoked paprika. It adds a decent flavor and color and you will be able use less of it in your rubs too.

I'm with missinTX on this one. The paprika I've bought in the supermarkets is really bland stuff and it doesn't do much more than add color.

However, I've been using Hungarian paprika lately and it makes a huge difference. I've used the McCormick brand a few times and it's OK, but my local Italian store has a brand called "Pride of Szeged" that's absolutely fantastic. I've used the sweet and the hot paprika, and both are excellent. Neither are smoked, though.

I have a catering company and will go through 100 pounds of rub in a couple of months. I have a wholesale spice company with in 10 miles of my home, they make the rub up for me (I can't make for the price they charge me).

The fresher the better with it comes to spices. Stores that specialize in spices is always a better choice if available.